THAE0303 | BEYOND DONOR DEPENDENCY: STRATEGIC SHIFTS IN FUNDING KEY POPULATION LED HIV PROGRAMS IN KENYA AFTER USAID WITHDRAWAL

James Mushori | Kabarak University, Nairobi, Kenya

The phased withdrawal of USAID funding has created significant uncertainty around the sustainability of key population-led HIV programs in Kenya. These programs, often implemented by community-based organizations in Nairobi, provide vital services to populations such as men who have sex with men, sex workers, and people who inject drugs. This study investigates how local NGOs are responding to the funding gap and explores emerging strategies for financial resilience. A cross-sectional quantitative survey was conducted among 58 NGOs operating key population programs in Nairobi. The study assessed the level of dependency on USAID funding, the presence and scope of existing resource mobilization strategies, and the adoption of alternative funding models following the funding reduction. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation analysis. Findings revealed that over 70 percent of organizations were highly dependent on USAID funding prior to its withdrawal, and only 29 percent had formal resource mobilization strategies in place. Since the funding shift, 63% reported initiating new approaches, including private sector engagement, local philanthropy, social enterprises, and domestic grants. However, most efforts remain fragmented and underresourced. Statistical analysis indicated a strong positive correlation (r = 0.68, p < 0.01) between diversified resource mobilization strategies and program continuity. Key barriers identified included limited fundraising skills, donor fatigue, and regulatory constraints. The survival of key population programs amid declining donor support hinges on the ability of NGOs to diversify funding and build internal capacity. The following are study recommendations: investment in structured capacity building on fundraising and partnerships, development of national strategies to stimulate local resource mobilization, support for income-generating initiatives, and technical assistance during donor transitions. With the right support, community-led organizations can sustain and even expand services beyond donor dependency.